Petrof Magic Egg Upright Piano (In-Depth Review)

When it comes to rare and unforgettable instruments, few stand out quite like the Petrof Magic Egg. Unlike traditional upright pianos, this model combines fine European craftsmanship with avant-garde design, making it as much a work of art as a musical instrument. In fact, I must admit, this is by far one of my favorite pianos of all time! In this review, we’ll explore its unique history, design, sound, and what makes it such a coveted collector’s piece.

Quick Preview: The Petrof Magic Egg is a striking, limited-edition upright piano that blends Petrof’s 150-year craftsmanship with a futuristic shell design by architect Robert Fišera. In this review I cover specs, history, design details, sound and touch, pricing, where to buy one, and who the Magic Egg is best for. If you want an acoustic upright piano that doubles as statement art and serious instrument, this Petrof Magic Egg review will give you what you need to know.

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Petrof Magic Egg Specs

(Note: Exact dimensions and finish options can vary by production run and dealer; consult the dealer or Petrof’s product page for the precise spec sheet.)

Introduction — what is the Petrof Magic Egg?

The Petrof Magic Egg is one of Petrof’s most eye-catching modern creations: an upright piano wrapped in an iconic, rounded shell that looks more like contemporary sculpture than a traditional case. It was conceived as a collaboration between Petrof’s craftsmen and Ing. arch. Robert Fišera, combining traditional piano-making with bold, modern aesthetics. This review focuses on both the musical performance and the visual presence of the instrument, because the Magic Egg lives in the intersection of furniture-scale design and playable acoustic instrument.

A Short History — Petrof and the Genesis of the Magic Egg

Petrof is a Bohemian piano house founded in the 19th century and known for warm, singing tone and extensive handwork. To celebrate and expand its portfolio of distinctive instruments, Petrof has released special designs that emphasize aesthetics as much as tone. The Petrof Magic Egg grew out of this tradition: a limited, museum-style upright piano that showcases the brand’s production skills and a designer’s vision. The model draws on Petrof’s long history of craftsmanship and their museum and custom program for one-off and limited-edition models.

Design & Construction — Why it Looks and Plays Like it Does

The most obvious feature of the Petrof Magic Egg is its shell. Instead of a conventional rectangular cabinet, the Magic Egg uses a rounded outer form that encases a fully functional acoustic upright piano inside. The design required close coordination between the architecture and manufacture teams to ensure the shell didn’t compromise acoustic performance or action geometry.

Under the shell you’ll find Petrof’s standard upright technical layout: full-sized soundboard area optimized for the model, carefully scaled strings and bridges, and a regulated action built to Petrof’s tolerances. The result is an upright piano that behaves like a high-end vertical—projective, with a warm tonal color typical of Petrof instruments—while also doubling as a dramatic sculptural piece. The Magic Egg is therefore a hybrid statement: gallery object and serious musical instrument.

Sound & Touch — Musical Impressions

In this review I listened to a Magic Egg (dealer demo recordings and showroom tryouts are the usual route for this rare model). Expect the signature Petrof tonal profile—warm mids, singing trebles, and a rounded bass—filtered through the acoustics of the unique cabinet. The shell changes the way sound radiates compared with a conventional upright; in many settings the Magic Egg projects a focused, intimate voice rather than the broad open sound of a tall studio upright. For solo playing in a design-forward living room, that’s often ideal.

Touch is typically Petrof: responsive, with a firm yet forgiving key weight that suits both lyrical Romantic repertoire and clean contemporary playing. Because this is an artisan instrument, regulation quality (voicing and action setup) matters—well-regulated Magic Eggs will feel and respond like top-tier uprights; poorly regulated examples will obviously underperform. As with all premium upright pianos, inspection and a careful playtest are essential.

Who is the Petrof Magic Egg for?

This review identifies a few ideal owners for the Petrof Magic Egg:

• Collectors & interior designers who want a musical showpiece that functions as modern art. The Magic Egg is intentionally exotic and designed to be a centerpiece.
• Professional pianists and studios seeking an instrument with character and enough projection for recording or intimate recitals. While not a concert grand, the Magic Egg has the quality to serve studio needs.
• High-end private buyers who want a usable acoustic upright piano that also elevates their interior design.

If you want a discreet practice instrument or a budget student upright piano, the Magic Egg is probably not the best match. This model is about presence as much as playability.

Pricing & Where to Buy

Dealer listings show the Petrof Magic Egg as a premium, limited piece. Retailers and showrooms list prices in the ballpark of €60,000 / ~$63,000 for new models depending on finish and local taxes, though actual prices vary by region and dealer options. Because this is a special-edition upright piano, expect lead times, limited availability, and potential customization or shipping premiums.

Where to buy: the Magic Egg is usually sold through Petrof’s authorized dealers and select high-end piano retailers across Europe and globally. Specialist sellers (and sites that handle Petrof design models) occasionally list available units; some dealers’ showrooms display the model for audition. If you’re serious, contact an authorized Petrof dealer to confirm current pricing, availability, and delivery.

Practical Considerations — Maintenance, Placement, and Ownership

• Tuning & regulation: The Magic Egg is an acoustic upright piano and needs regular tuning and occasional regulation and voicing. Expect the same ongoing maintenance as for other high-end verticals.
• Placement & acoustics: The sculptural shell changes sound dispersion; placing the Magic Egg in a room with good acoustic balance will maximize its voice. Avoid tight corners that choke the projected sound.
• Transport: Because of the unusual cabinet, moving the Magic Egg requires experienced piano movers who understand non-standard case shapes. Plan the route and room access in advance.
• Resale & rarity: As a limited designer model, the Magic Egg has collectible appeal—but resale depends on market taste for designer pianos. It’s best bought for love of the design and sound, not purely as an investment.

Pros & Cons of the Petrof Magic Egg

Pros

• Striking visual design that doubles as sculpture.
• Genuine Petrof piano tone and action in a one-of-a-kind package.
• Limited production makes it a conversation piece for homes or galleries.

Cons

• Premium price compared with standard upright pianos.
• Limited availability; may require dealer coordination and custom handling.
• Maintenance and moving require specialist care because of the unique cabinet.

Final Thoughts

This review finds the Petrof Magic Egg to be a compelling proposition: it’s an upright piano that doesn’t hide its design ambitions. Musically it carries Petrof’s warm voice and playable action; visually it’s a statement object aimed at collectors and design-conscious musicians. If you’re seeking an acoustic upright piano that makes a strong aesthetic impact while remaining playable at a professional level, the Petrof Magic Egg is a rare and rewarding choice. For a buyer who values both sound and sculptural form, this model is worth auditioning.

FAQ — Petrof Magic Egg

Q: What exactly is the Petrof Magic Egg?

A: The Petrof Magic Egg is a designer upright piano produced by Petrof, featuring a rounded, sculptural shell designed by Ing. arch. Robert Fišera and built to Petrof’s acoustic and action standards.

Q: How much does a Petrof Magic Egg cost?

A: Dealer listings commonly show prices around €60,000 / ~$63,000 for a new Magic Egg, though final pricing depends on dealer, region, and options.

Q: Is the Magic Egg a serious musical instrument or just a showpiece?

A: It’s both. The Magic Egg is a fully functional upright piano built to Petrof standards—playable and suitable for recording or intimate performance—while also serving as a designer showpiece.

Q: Where can I try or purchase a Magic Egg?

A: Contact an authorized Petrof dealer or high-end piano retailer; select showrooms and specialist sellers list the model occasionally. A dealer can confirm availability and arrange audition or delivery.

Q: Is this a good choice for a beginner?

A: Not usually—due to its premium price and designer focus, the Magic Egg is best for collectors, serious home players, or studios. For beginner budgets, a standard Petrof upright or a quality student piano is a more practical option.